A simple ionization gauge for use in a magnetic field

Abstract

A simple ionization gauge is described which can be used to measure fast pressure changes in a weak plasma environment in a magnetic field. The gauge has a conventional triode structure and hence can be readily constructed using commercial components. The gauge tested is, however, much less sensitive than a standard Bayard–Alpert gauge. The gauge is, however, relatively insensitive to an applied magnetic field of up to 5 kG, and will tolerate a large variation in the direction of the magnetic field.